Miami Guide & Trip Recap
Typically when I stay in Miami (in my former, younger years escaping NYC), I would be staying at the Shore Club (RIP) or a South Beach property with a pool scene with my girlfriends. We’d spend the day flipping over by the pool to even our tans, while sipping a pitcher of sangria or refreshing cocktails. Post pool, we’d take a cat nap and get a bite before, most importantly, heading to the to the latest club starting around 12:30/1 am. Then repeat until it was time to drag ourselves back to the island of Manhattan Sunday night.
On this visit, I was staying in Miami City, and seeing a different side on the mainland. While the heat was palpable in June, I was comforted by the nearby pool and retreat to kayak in Biscayne Bay, paddling to a small island for a swim before the clouds rolled in. I enjoyed a much slower pace, while getting to experience a new show with a lot of Miami heat.
As The New York Times put it: "In Miami, a Pandemic-Fueled. A Michelin-starred Korean steakhouse, new public art installations and native-plant gardens under the Metrorail: Here is what’s new in the Magic City." Looks like it’s time for a visit or reconnecting if you haven’t been in a while.
Faena Burlesque Show
Here’s a quick snapshot of our few days:
➵ Loved going to Faena Hotel for a drink at the lobby before enjoying an infamous Faena Live Show with host Kat Cunning - which sadly was her final act and who’s voice will give you goosebumps. The show continues though and is very sexy, perfect night out with your significant other - running only Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
➵ Curate your own charcuterie board, grab a bottle of wine, sit in the garden or listen to the musicians at Lagniappe House, which is a bit hidden, but worth the find.
➵ Dine on the patio at Mandolin Aegean Bistro share and be sure to share many plates since everything on the menu is delectable. Then walk off your dinner or window shop in the area’s Design District with plenty of luxury stores.
➵ Kayak in Biscayne Bay and paddle up to an island to swim from Oleta River State Park. It was nice to get out on the water in a different way, and another option is to SUP in Virgnia Key Outdoor Center, where you’re more likely to spot the friendly local manatees buoying in the water.
➵ Overeat at local Cuban favorite Versailles with a classic Cuban sandwich, croquettes, café con leche, then lay down because it is incredibly filling. Don’t be a hero and try to finish it all.
Where to Stay:
Art Deco favorites would be Faena Hotel, Cavalier South Beach, The Betsy, Esmé Hotel and The Plymouth South Beach. I’m a sucker for any hotel with an exceptional lobby bar and cozy vibe.
Want to up the ante? Consider these top places with great pools, location and experience like Four Seasons, W South Beach, The Miami Beach EDITION, SLS South Beach and famous Fontainebleau Hotel. Check out brainchild of David Grutman and Pharrell Williams new the goodtime hotel as well.
If you want to book one of these Virtuoso properties, you can get certain benefits by booking with me as your advisor like free upgrades, free breakfast, resort credits and more based on the timing and property relationship.
Where to Dine:
Did you know you can dine and stay at the Versace Mansion now? The Villa Casa Casuarina at The Former Versace Mansion is worth a stay and dinner at Gianni’s. We walked past and I was nostalgic, a bit wistful seeing it again in person.
Byblos, just steps away from Ocean Drive, serves up Mediterranean fare and shares the historic Lebanon city’s namesake.
Joe’s Stone Crab is a Miami institution that you’ll have to try and book in advance.
Make reservations at the Surf Club Restaurant by Thomas Keller at the Four Seasons.
Mandolin Aegean Bistro is over on the mainland and worth the trip even if you’re staying in Miami Beach. It’s near a cute spot called CHICA Miami for a night cap. Also dangerously close to Consignment Bar shop - if you’re like me and like to have drinks then spend money you shouldn’t!
Opened by the former chef of Mandolin, head to Wynwood to Doya that’s been noted as one of the most romantic restaurants in the city.
By no means is this an exhaustive or comprehensive list, so hope you this inspires you and you start planning your visit.
Where to Shop & Take a Stroll
There’s always something to see and do in Wynwood. Check their regularly updated site for events while you’re in town. It’s great to just get out and walk around to see all the murals, art and bustling scene any night of the week. The Freehold Miami is worth checking out there.
Another great neighborhood adjacent to Wynwood is the relatively new Design District. It’s attracted the most coveted brands and shops to shop and check out the art installations sprinkled throughout.
Goes without saying, but make time for sitting and people watching on Ocean Drive. Yes, it’s touristy, however, it’s good fun too.
*Avoid Art Basel Week in December unless you’re a die-hard art fan and want to hobnob with the crowd - but also fight the traffic and compete with high prices or hotel availability.
If you need help on your next visit and tapping my hotel connections, feel free to reach out here and learn how I work with clients.
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